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Society for the Furtherance of Critical Philosophy

The Socratic method encourages reflection and independent, critical thinking.  On one level, a Socratic Dialogue is a collaborative attempt to find the answer to a fundamental question. It is a form of co-operative philosophical enquiry. On another level it is entirely individual, rooted in concrete personal experience, and contributing to the formation of one’s own personal philosophy.
It is accessible to all, and no prior philosophical training is needed to participate.

The attempt to reconnect practical philosophical philosophy with its Socratic roots began with the German philosopher and teacher, Leonard Nelson. Launched in 1922, Socratic Dialogue grew out an era of dogmatism. More about the Socratic Method is here.

Events 2024

We are running a series of dialogues around the UK in 2024 as well as our regular dialogue in London in October. A full list is on Events 24.

In addition we are hosting the 8th International Colloquium in Durham, 12-15 September 2024. Registration is now open.

Some of our past events with reports are listed under Activities, including our most recent to Sheffield: When thought takes flight.

Recent Dialogues

February 2024
When thought takes Flight
Sheffield

Collaboration with SFCP and Think together Sheffield in the Millennium Gallery – 8th February 7pm to 10pm
Report and photographs

January 2024
When should we use artificial intelligence?
London

‘When should we use artificial intelligence (AI)?’ Facilitated by Anna Bromley
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a much-discussed topic at present, with citizens, businesses and governments debating its potential for good and harm.
Report and photographs

October 2023
What is my responsibility for the future?
London

Dialogue facilitated by Dieter Krohn
Lancaster Hall Hotel, London
Report and photographs

News

Dr Rene Saran, a Trustee, Chair and Secretary of the Society
for the Furtherance of Critical Philosophy, died May 2023 aged 101. Tributes to Rene Saran
Celebrating Rene’s 100th Birthday July 2021

Pat Shipley, a friend and Trustee of SFCP, died in July 2021. Dorothy Moir, a Trustee and friend of Pat’s, wrote this tribute.

Contact

If you’d like to join our mailing list or for a dialogue, welcome!
galangal19@yahoo.co.uk (Dr. Julie-Marie ffrench Devitt)